Information On E-Bikes for Disabled Users

A constituent contacted me regarding the use of an E-bike. While the government offers advice on electric bike rules: https://www.gov.uk/electric-bike-rules, the rules are silent on the use of twist-and-go throttles for people with disabilities.

The Minister Simon Lightwood MP provided a helpful response to my letter to him on behalf of my constituent which I though would helpful to disseminate: 

The EAPC regulations do not specify any requirements related to throttles, but type approval requirements need to be considered. Throttles that can propel an EAPC from 3.7 mph to 15.5 mph are allowed on EAPCs (also known as ‘Twist and Go’ EAPCs) however, the vehicle then requires approval either to assimilated EU regulation 168/2013 or the domestic Motorcycle Single Vehicle Approval (MSVA) scheme.

If your e-bike meets the EAPC regulations but is fitted with a throttle, you will be able to submit it for MSVA with the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) as a 250W Low Powered Moped (250W LPM). The Specialist Vehicle Testing and Approval team will be able to offer support with your application: [email protected]

If approval is gained, your e-bike can be used in the same way as a pedal cycle except for age restrictions. The rider needs to be 14 years of age or older to ride it on roads and cycleways, and it does not require registration, compulsory insurance, vehicle excise duty, or annual roadworthiness testing. The rider is not subject to driver licensing and helmet wearing requirements.